Health Minister Patrice Minors yesterday launched the Directory of Services for Children and Families ? a new reference source for Bermuda?s families.

?While the Ministry recognises that parents are often the greatest advocates for their children?s interest, sometimes even the best parents need a little assistance from professionals in Government and non-government agencies,? the Minister said.

?This directory pools together a list of some 73 Government and community services available on the Island and is aimed as a quick resource to help children, young people and families when they need a little extra help in our community.?

Mrs. Minors explained that the 100-page directory was a re-launch of the Health for Success Catalogue which was last published in 2000.

?We believe that the new name better reflects the directory?s aim, and will make it more accessible and user friendly to a wider public,? she explained.

She said it was not meant to be a ?complete and thorough guide to every organisation on the Island that contributes to the well-being of children? but a list of agencies that offer ?helping services for school-aged children and their families?.